Navigating Tax Implications with AB Trusts

Utilizing AB Trusts for Estate Tax Benefits

Wealthy married couples have an advantageous opportunity to maximize their estate planning and minimize their federal gift and estate tax obligations. With the capacity to transfer millions of dollars collectively without incurring federal taxes, the technique known as “portability” – a term frequently used by tax professionals – simplifies their financial planning by potentially negating the necessity for an AB trust, also known as a bypass trust.

The Functionality of AB Trusts

Historically, prior to the alteration of tax laws, spouses were granted individual estate tax exemptions. However, it was commonplace for the first spouse to pass away without utilizing this exemption due to the tendency to bequeath their entire estate to their surviving partner. With the marital exemption in place, these transfers were not subjected to estate tax, leaving the surviving spouse with all the assets. When the surviving spouse’s estate exceeded the individual exemption limit upon their subsequent passing, estate taxes were then applicable.

For example, in 2009, the estate tax exemption was $3.5 million. If Christine and Terry held a combined estate worth $4 million and allocated their entirety to each other, no estate tax would apply upon Christine’s death in 2009 due to the marital exemption. However, as Terry’s estate would then be valued at $4 million, taxes would be levied on the amount surpassing the $3.5 million exemption threshold at a 45% rate.

Through the establishment of an AB trust, couples such as Christine and Terry would shift their properties to an irrevocable trust rather than to each other. The surviving spouse would enjoy the income generated by the trust, potentially access the principal under certain conditions, and typically the children would inherit the trust assets after the surviving spouse’s death. The inclusion of these assets in the surviving spouse’s estate would then be avoided, thus exempting them from estate tax at that time.

“Portability” and Its Impact on Tax Planning

The portability provision enables a surviving spouse to apply the unused portion of the decedent spouse’s exemption to their own estate. Thus, the majority of couples find AB trusts unnecessary. However, it is imperative to remember that the right to use the spouse’s remaining exemption is not granted automatically; the surviving spouse is required to file an estate tax return upon the decedent spouse’s death, despite no tax being due.

The Relevance of AB Trusts for Particular Scenarios

While the escalated personal exemption coupled with portability renders AB trusts superfluous for many couples, there are circumstances under which an AB trust remains beneficial:

• An AB trust is imperative for couples who are not legally married, as portability is only accessible to such couples.
• In blended family scenarios, AB trusts assure that one’s children will inherit the estate after the surviving spouse’s death.
• Residents of states imposing their own estate taxes, separate from federal estate tax, might necessitate an AB trust as these states frequently offer lower exemptions with no portability.

For further assistance concerning AB trusts or any other estate planning services, do not hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable attorneys at James H. Wilson. Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through the intricacies of estate planning to ensure your assets are protected and your wishes are honored.

Please reach out for a comprehensive assessment and tailored advice at the contact number: 804.740.6464.